A Central Texas teacher is facing charges of having an inappropriate relationship with a student.
Michael Winters, who worked as a special education teacher for Leander Independent School District, allegedly engaged in sexual contact with a student at Leander High School on September 8, according to the Williamson County District Attorney.
In a letter sent to parents on Sunday, Leander High School Principal Chris Simpson said that Winters was placed on administrative leave when the district learned of the alleged inappropriate contact, pending an investigation by Leander police and Child Protective Services.
Leander ISD told Texas Scorecard that Winters is still on administrative leave.
Simpson stated in the letter that the district cannot provide families with more information.
“Out of respect for privacy concerns and the ongoing legal process, we regret that we cannot disclose further details now,” wrote Simpson. “We have arranged for highly qualified staff to support the continuity of instruction and services for our students.”
The Leander Police Department also said they cannot release more information regarding the case because it is an ongoing investigation and involves a minor.
According to jail records, Winters was booked into Williamson County Jail on Saturday with a bail of $15,000. He later posted bail and was released the following day.
According to state records, Winters’ teaching certificate is currently under investigation by the Texas Education Agency.
Winters previously worked for Burnet Consolidated Independent School District and the Settlement Home for Children, a charter school run by the University of Texas. After resigning from Burnet CISD in May 2023, he was then employed by Leander ISD in August 2023.
Texas Scorecard has exposed dozens of educators charged with sex crimes, with more being charged almost daily.
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